Cool Tools

It's been a super-busy couple weeks here at ChronicBabe HQ, where I'm unpacking, decorating, organizing...and otherwise feeling overwhelmed. As a Babe with fibromyalgia, I have to manage my energy, so unfortunately I haven't had a lot of time to write articles...but I HAVE had time to check out a few products that I want to share with you: Toombas Jeans, Respire Inhaler Cases, and EndoFemm Heating/Cooling Pads.

Posted: 3/28/2008 in Cool Tools

It's a time for new beginnings here at ChronicBabe HQ, I and my husband are unpacking in our newly reconstructed condo (it was hit by a freak storm in August 2007). I'm feeling like our new/old home offers us something of a fresh start, both personally and professionally. So why not celebrate new beginnings this week in Grand Rounds? Here's a big batch of excellent posts that do just that.

Posted: 3/4/2008 in Cool Tools

I've just been to BodyWorlds2 and, frankly, I'm thinking about the phrase "wrap my head around it" in a whole new way. I learned that if one were to unfold the tissue of the cerebral cortex (that's the big, squiggly part of the brain that we easily see) and spread it out, it would measure 16 square feet. My migraines make a bit more sense.

Posted: 7/5/2007 in Cool Tools

Occasionally we have the chance to review a book that many ChronicBabes might like, and sometimes we let another Babe do the review for us. In this case, Michelle, who has Type 2 diabetes, seemed a perfect fit to review "Know Your Numbers, Outlive Your Diabetes: 5 Essential Health Factors You Can Master to Enjoy a Long and Healthy Life" by Richard Jackson, MD, and Amy Tenderich. Says Michelle, "Let's cut to the chase:  I love this book. Love it. Really."

Posted: 3/11/2007 in Cool Tools

We've followed Amy Tenderich's project, DiabetesMine, for the past couple years, watching it grow and gain a strong reputation in the diabetes community. So we weren't surprised to hear she had come out with a valuable new book on diabetes, co-written with Richard Jackson, MD, called "Know Your Numbers, Outlive Your Diabetes." Today, we talk with Amy (a Type 1 diabetic) and Dr. Jackson about their work together on the book. On Monday, March 12, we offer up a review by Michelle Haus, a DiabetesBabe.

Posted: 3/8/2007 in Cool Tools

Valentine's Day is just around the corner - a celebration of all things lovely. We at ChronicBabe are simply in love with the Grand Rounds blog carnival, so what better day to host? I'm from the South, where Sugar is a pet name for anyone you love. My grandpa used to sit me on his knee and say "give me some sugar" and tickle me into a massive giggling fit. Asking someone to "give me some sugar" is also a creative way of asking for a kiss or some other treat. So this Valentine's Day Eve, I've asked my fellow health and medical writers to give up the sugar - to share their treats.

Posted: 2/13/2007 in Cool Tools

We've made our list, and checked it twice. Well, OK...more like three or four times, because we're a little neurotic. But it was worth it! We've gathered tons of great gift ideas for all the ChronicBabes in your life: the drama mamas, the green thumbs, the book worms, the granola girls. Dive in - there's something for everyone!

Posted: 12/9/2006 in Cool Tools

One of the best things about being one of The Real Hot 100 is the connections we've made with incredible women. Over the next few weeks, we'll be introducing you to some of their projects. Today: Femina, a powerful search engine of sites by, for and about women.

Posted: 8/22/2006 in Cool Tools

Welcome to Grand Rounds ChronicBabe style, where it's all about the ladies. We got a ton of excellent posts, so take some time to really work your way down the list. You won't be disappointed! Thanks to everyone who participated, and to Nick for organizing Grand Rounds! We're honored to be your hostess this week.

Posted: 7/18/2006 in Cool Tools  |  Also posted in: Inspiration

Jennifer Jaff is a total Babe: an attorney with Crohn's disease, she created Advocacy for Patients with Chronic Illness, Inc., a non-profit resource for Chronic folks who need legal assistance. We talk with Jennifer about her work with clients one-on-one, and her thoughts on HSAs and other health care issues in the news.

Posted: 5/25/2006 in Cool Tools  |  Also posted in: Coping

Meditation is great for all Babes, chronic or not. It helps you get more restful sleep, think more clearly, boost energy, and better handle stress. What's not to love? Well, I love meditation and breathing exercises, but truthfully, they can get a little dull. Who wants to visualize the same darn peaceful stream over and over again? Hmm? The Breathe Easy Deck, created by Amy Zerner and Monte Farber, helps tackle the boredom issue by offering dozens of cards, each with beautiful artwork and thoughtful mantras to recite while practicing your relaxation techniques.

Posted: 4/3/2006 in Cool Tools

Here at ChronicBabe HQ, we get the occasional product that we want to test. But the Editrix alone can't test everything - so we assembled a panel of Babes to try out goodies. In this inaugural test, we check out t spheres, yummy-looking and -smelling massage balls endorsed by rock stars. Here's what the Editrix and other Babes had to say.

Posted: 3/26/2006 in Cool Tools

Here's the fifth edition of LadyBloggers, where we profile a ChronicBabe who's doing superior writing. There are so many great web sites out there created by, and for, ChronicBabes. But sometimes it can be hard to find them! LadyBloggers is a way to connect you with some of our favorite resources, and offer a peek at why and how these women are sharing their voice in the community. And maybe we'll spark some creativity in you, too! If you want us to profile your web site, let us know and we'll consider your project.

Posted: 3/7/2006 in Cool Tools  |  Also posted in: Inspiration

There are so many great web sites out there created by, and for, ChronicBabes. But sometimes it can be hard to find them! That's why we feature LadyBloggers -- ChronicBabes who are doing superior writing. It's a way to connect you with some of our favorite resources, and offer a peek at why and how these women are sharing their voice in the community. And maybe we'll spark some creativity in you, too! If you want us to profile your web site, let us know and we'll consider your project. And now, without futher ado, we bring you: TheDailyHeadache.com, by Kerrie Smyres.

Posted: 2/20/2006 in Cool Tools  |  Also posted in: Inspiration

There are so many great web sites out there created by, and for, ChronicBabes. But sometimes it can be hard to find them! That's why we feature LadyBloggers -- ChronicBabes who are doing superior writing. It's a way to connect you with some of our favorite resources, and offer a peek at why and how these women are sharing their voice in the community. And maybe we'll spark some creativity in you, too! If you want us to profile your web site, let us know and we'll consider your project. And now, without futher ado, we bring you: DiabetesTeenTalk.com, created by Allison Blass.

Posted: 1/30/2006 in Cool Tools  |  Also posted in: Inspiration

We have found the Best. T-shirts. Ever. MedTees.com offers hilarious t-shirts for chronic folk, guaranteed to get a laugh and scare away the pink elephant in the room. And a chunk of the proceeds goes to charity!

Posted: 1/22/2006 in Cool Tools

Here's the second edition of LadyBloggers, where we profile a ChronicBabe who's doing superior writing. There are so many great web sites out there created by, and for, ChronicBabes. But sometimes it can be hard to find them! LadyBloggers is a way to connect you with some of our favorite resources, and offer a peek at why and how these women are sharing their voice in the community. And maybe we'll spark some creativity in you, too! If you want us to profile your web site, let us know and we'll consider your project. And now, without futher ado, we bring you: MooglesThoughts, created by Tracy Young.

Posted: 12/15/2005 in Cool Tools  |  Also posted in: Inspiration

Welcome to the ChronicBabe edition of the Carnival of Compassion. We're following in the footsteps of some great editions of the Carnival, so we have really hunted for some extra-cool resources for you.

Posted: 12/11/2005 in Cool Tools

There are so many great web sites out there created by, and for, ChronicBabes. But sometimes it can be hard to find them! That's why we're starting a new weekly feature: LadyBloggers. Each week, we'll profile a ChronicBabe who's doing superior writing. It's a way to connect you with some of our favorite resources, and offer a peek at why and how these women are sharing their voice in the community. And maybe we'll spark some creativity in you, too! If you want us to profile your web site, let us know and we'll consider your project. And now, without futher ado, we bring you: DiabetesMine.com, created by Amy Tenderich.

Posted: 12/7/2005 in Cool Tools  |  Also posted in: Inspiration

Babe Sarah tells us she's spotted a super cute Hello Kitty pillbox. Check it out!

Posted: 11/11/2005 in Cool Tools

I have to admit, I hesitated to bring this book home from the store. From the outside, Chronically Happy: Joyful Living In Spite of Chronic Illness by Lori Hartwell--cover complete with silly happy face--was just not all that appealing. But this is actually an excellent book, full of helpful advice, fresh perspectives, and anecdotal examples of ways to improve your life even if you have a chronic illness.

Posted: 11/4/2005 in Cool Tools  |  Also posted in: Inspiration

In our continual search for cool ways to carry our meds, we've come up with yet more foxy pill boxes.

Posted: 9/28/2005 in Cool Tools

A ChronicBabe recounts her experience finding--and learning to love--cognitive therapy as a treatment for anxiety.

Posted: 8/1/2005 in Cool Tools  |  Also posted in: Coping

Fellow Babe and sometimes contributor Pam has a few book ideas to share, on topics related to starting a family; understanding the nervous system and pain; and mindfulness and meditation.

Posted: 7/23/2005 in Cool Tools

When I'm feeling less than fantastic, I often turn to stories of inspiration to boost my spirits. No, not the Chicken Soup for Your Stinky Feet variety... the That Takes Ovaries!, by Rivka Solomon, variety.

Posted: 7/21/2005 in Cool Tools  |  Also posted in: Inspiration

Paula Kamen, author of "All in My Head: An Epic Quest to Cure an Unrelenting, Totally Unreasonable and Only Slightly Enlightening Headache,"is my new heroine. Her book embodies exactly the approach I strive for with ChronicBabe - finding a positive take on something outrageously negative.

Posted: 7/17/2005 in Cool Tools

We're always looking for groovy ways to store and transport all the paraphernalia that goes with being a ChronicBabe. Pills, tampons, syringes, inhalers--it's way more fun to whip it out if it looks funky. So this resource, from my sister (and fellow ChronicBabe) Lauren, is right up our alley!

Posted: 6/20/2005 in Cool Tools

Fellow ChronicBabe Brenda says: "best icepack EVER: the ContourPak.

Posted: 6/13/2005 in Cool Tools

In my never-ending search for cute pillboxes for gals on meds, I've found some cute silver pillboxes that will look swell on even the most formal occasions.

Posted: 6/13/2005 in Cool Tools

Reaching into my coat pocket earlier today, I found not only my chapstick, but also a couple of old Tylenol wrapped in Kleenex. How old are they? Who knows. But I'm not taking them. What a waste!

Posted: 6/7/2005 in Cool Tools

Tired of carrying pills around in nasty old beat-up bottles? Check out these super cute pillboxes from The Sarut Group.

Posted: 6/6/2005 in Cool Tools

We now own the movie Garden State, which I totally love, and while watching it last night I found my new fave ChronicBabe movie quote.

Posted: 6/1/2005 in Cool Tools  |  Also posted in: Inspiration

Two authors - a mother and daughter team - bring you Vaginas: An Owner's Manual.

Posted: 6/1/2005 in Cool Tools

Amy Mercer of Dreaming of Water (a blog about women and diabetes) recently presented ChronicBabe with the Thinking Blogger Award, and challenged us to recognize five other blogs that make US think. Here's our list of five favorites. (Though, of course, we could list dozens!)

Posted: 8/20/2007 in Announcements  |  Also posted in: Cool Tools

ChronicBabe.com is giving away 5 copies of Lisa J. Copen's great book Beyond Casseroles: 505 Ways to Encourage a Chronically Ill Friend.

Posted: 5/9/2007 in Announcements  |  Also posted in: Cool Tools

Regular readers know we luv Grand Rounds, the weekly rotating carnival of the best of the medical blogosphere. We luv it so much, in fact, that we're hosting it on July 18, and you're invited to participate!

Posted: 7/7/2006 in Announcements  |  Also posted in: Cool Tools

Usually Babes ask us questions, and we do our best to answer them. Today, the Babe needs to ask a question herself! Do you -- or anyone you know -- use voice recognition software?

Posted: 8/26/2005 in Announcements  |  Also posted in: Cool Tools

Once again, a reader alerts us to the existence of foxy medical alert jewelry! The Beadin-Beagle offers cute, original alternatives to the same-old same-old.

Posted: 8/1/2005 in Fashion  |  Also posted in: Cool Tools

Shop the Babe! Today we opened our own CafePress shop, where you can pick from almost 30 different ChronicBabe goodies.

Posted: 7/29/2005 in Announcements  |  Also posted in: Cool Tools

Heat can be great for what ails you, but sometimes you need something a little more mobile than the traditional plug-in heating pad. Here's a cheap and easy trick to make your own heating pad.

Posted: 6/11/2005 in Crafty  |  Also posted in: Cool Tools

If you wear a medic alert bracelet, you probably don't love its boring, utilitarian look. Now Hope Paige Designs is offering medic alert bracelets fit for a babe!

Posted: 6/1/2005 in Fashion  |  Also posted in: Cool Tools